help 3.2 front brake pads notch or glue on?

[WIL84911]

Need new brakes but don't know if I've got a notch type or glue on sensor? And don't know how I can verify. Could someone assist please?

[tonythetarga]

If it is an 84 as your user name implies, it should be a notch. I think that changed in 87, but my 86 is a notch type as well.

[WIL84911]

Yes Tony it's an 84. Sorry forgot to point that out! Thanks!!

[tonythetarga]

Before you order your parts check the brake fluid reservoir. If your light is on it could be low fluid and not just pads needing a change.
To check the sensor is easy. Take off a wheel and look at the caliper. The inside pad will have a wire lead going to it stuck in the notch which will be on the top of the brake pad.
If the light is on it could also be from having come loose and making contact elsewhere on the body/chassis. It is a pretty simple system, the brake pad material isolates the wire from grounding (and turning on the light). When the pads wear down to metal, you let the wire ground out and turn on the light.
The ends that fit in the notch have a tendancy to break after many years of service and the sensor wire is a plug and play replaceable item from our host.
At the very least, you will get to look at your brake pads. If you have pad material left, say 1/2 or better, then your problem is not worn pads so keep looking and check each sensor.

[WIL84911]

thanks again tony!! what a guy!! Will do your suggestions but I know pads are almost down to the metal and rotors are way past their tolerance limit from prior owner. got this car 9 months ago and put in over 7K miles (daily driver - just love it even with low heat w/ the blower stopped working after installing SSI's).

[burgermeister]

If you look at your pads, the sensor will either clip on (notch) or glue on. My 88 was clip on. Careful removing the clips, they are brittle beyond belief.

While some time ago I asked in a thread why one would want to run without the wear sensors, mine are zip-tied to the struts / banana arms these days - they're a PITA, and I look at the brakes often enough to not need them.

[WIL84911]

OK thanks burgermeister!